Launches

“I always like doing things a bit differently”, says Romano Ricci. This year the founder of the perfume ‘Juliette Has A Gun’ surprises with Café Juliette, a unique perfumery concept, a bar where people can sit, chat, eat, read and enjoy perfumes like the latest creation: Sunny Side Up (100ml €85). The bright and warm scent with woody notes and sweet vanilla is the perfect winter antidote, and is now on sale at skins.nl.

Romano, you created Juliette Has A Gun 11 years ago, are you still in love with Juliette?

“I am! I still get inspired by her and new ideas keep popping into my mind. The concept of Juliette is much deeper then I thought when I started. In the end I think she lives inside every woman, even in men.”

Do you know the term the ‘7 year itch’? It suggests that happiness in a relationship declines after around year seven of a marriage?

“That’s interesting because it sure feels as if am married to Juliette. After seven years there was a new breath: the launch of the luxury limited edition collection with Oil Fiction for men and women. Luckily the olfactory field is kind of wide, so I never got bored with Juliette and I never stuck to one type of Juliette - who anyway is a kind of impertinent girl. A mix of tradition with the zest of impertinence, that is what Juliette Has A Gun is saying.”

What type of woman did you have in mind when you created Juliette Has A Gun?

“I wanted the perfume to appeal to women who stand out, who do things differently and have a certain character and liberty. That’s why I also added Has A Gun. Juliette is very outspoken: you like it or you don’t.”

If I wanted it to appeal to lots of women then I would have called the perfume Juliette. Just like other fragrances with only a first name such as Chloé or Coco.”

Do you as the grandson of Nina Ricci regret that the Ricci company was sold to Puig?

“Firstly, even if the company was still in the family I would have created my own universe. The DNA of my grandfather Robert Ricci is totally different from mine. My grandfather had a David Hamilton-like vision on femininity: very young and innocent. For me it is more about a spicy femininity.

Secondly, one of the reasons the company was sold to Puig is that my father and grandfather were in a kind of war. Which was sad for them because my father was his only son. It was also sad for me because that fight was my first impression of the perfumery business and fashion world. However, as I said, if it still was owned by the family I would have gone my own way.”

Tell me about Café Juliette, it must be a very particular concept?

“I always like doing things a bit differently. I invented a perfume café with a huge bar and sales girls. It’s very chic. I wanted a place where people come, read magazines and drink free champagne or coffee. There are menus for the Juliette range of fragrances. It is very unusual that customers can sit in a beauty store. Also unique are the restrooms. They are really surprising and very ‘Instagrammable’. With a funny and trendy place like this I want to trigger the idea of the perfumery.”

You call perfume ‘invisible fashion’.

“Just as a certain hairstyle, makeup or shoes, perfume is like an invisible dress that can strengthen a look. Spritz with Lady Vengeance and transform into a more powerful person. You’ll get self confidence. I love that idea.”

De uitgebreide zwart chic gelakte collectie komt uit het brein van Lucia Pica, Chanels Global Creative Designer for Make-Up and Colour: “I wanted to bring my editorial techniques into the everyday life of women. I wanted to use brushes that do the job fast, yet are practical. They achieve results quickly and are easy to use.”

Wrapped in a beautiful soft box somewhat reminiscent of a safe, Ex Nihilo CitizenX creates an expectation of elegant softness and old grandeur. And that is exactly what it delivers. Written by Wes Viana Ferreiro.

Citizen X is a clear, vibrant fragrance that feels light to the skin with the perfect amount of spice. The Parisian perfume house brings iconic fragrances with the Iconoclaste Collection – a range of perfumes inspired by free thinkers and an homage to the Great independents.

Typical Parisian, a free-spirited perfume for those who have a clear head and enjoy balanced and sensual perfumes.

With new brands arising every day the established ones are fighting hard to don’t get forgotten. One of their strongest assets in this fight is the rich history that long-established brands have. Penhaligon’s is one of those brands, in the Netherlands exclusively at Skins. Written by Wes Viana Ferreiro.

Penhaligon's - established in 1870 - tells a story of a Cornish barber who moved to London to change the scene. Inspired by the Turkish baths on Jermyn Street William Penhaligon's created his first fragrance Hammam Bouquet. His efforts and creations didn’t go by unnoticed, especially not by the British royals who have repeatedly contracted his services. Over 147 years Penhaligon's has received several royal warrants, created innovative fragrances that tell a lush story of world trade and all without ever changing the original bottle design.

Halfetti is an abundant wood-flowery fragrance inspired on the luxurious goods imported from Turkey by the Levant Company. Think exotic flowers, spices, soft leather and costly fabrics. It’s named after the Turkish village Halfetti, where black roses grow on the riverbanks. All fragrances from the Trade Routes Collection make you think of an exotic place, continents away. Halfetti is one of the heavier fragrances, yet the collection also carries fragrances that are more attainable.

Empressa is inspired by the beauty of mother-of-pearl, precious silk and other goods imported to London to wow powerful, influential ladies. Penhaligon’s story-telling is about as strong as a contemporary brand can have and enables you to travel far from home in just one sprinkle.

Penhaligon’s has not only succeeded in creating lush perfumes building on its rich history, but has now taken it to the next level of storytelling.

With the Portraits collection (€225 75ml also exclusively at Skins) Penhaligon’s has cleverly created a brand new collection of fragrances from scratch with a story as rich as Downtown Abbey. The collection starts out with six fragrances with aristocratic names such as The Revenge of Lady Blanche, Much Ado About The Duke and The Coveted Duchess Rose.

Lord George is the patriarchal leader of the pack and tells the story of a vain man who is always aware of his appearance. Think wood and fougère – one of the main olfactive families of perfumes. Although often used in men’s fragrances, it is now mixed with a hint of rum, which makes it lightly caramel.

Although the collection is newly created, it has an old soul. You can imagine a real person behind each perfume and you can picture them flaunting through Mayfair and having drinks with Oscar Wilde at Café Royal. Popular television shows like Downtown Abbey and The Crown have of course stimulated the contemporary brain to look back in the past and Penhaligon’s has cleverly stepped in on this phenomenon.

Penhaligon’s London is exclusively available in all Skins stores and its web shop. Halfetti 100ml €185. Empressa 100ml €149 Skins.nl

With perfume bottles that wouldn’t be out of place in the design section at the Stedelijk, L’Artisan Parfumeur has been creating perfumes for over forty years. Written by Wes Viana Ferreiro.

L’Artisan Parfumeur creator Jean Laporte started out composing fragrances for friends, which soon he soon started to branch out to other customers. The classic collection has not been altered since the beginning, and are still as modern as a Mondrian painting.

As a tribute to its founder, the newly added fragrances take you on a magical journey, one that fuses the human arts and the beauty of nature.

The newly introduced colognes – Au bord de L’Eau and Sur L’Herbe ­– are a homage to the impressionist masterpieces by parfumeur Fabrice Pellegrin.

Au bord de l’Eau is a combination of lemon zest and bergamot with hints of neroli. This cologne is the perfect choice while on a boat enjoying some canapés and a Negroni in the sun. Sur L’Herbe uses bergamot too, but is much more subtle than Au bord. Perfect to wear at your best friend’s birthday party – not to steal away his or her thunder. The collection has been extended with a broad candle collection. Also check out their Instagram page for some visual marketing heaven.

L’Artisan Parfumeur is available now at all Skins stores and on www.skins.nlAu bord de l’Eau and Sur L’Herbe 100ml/€112. Candle Collection 250gr/€63.

All the effects of daily exfoliation and spa facials in just a few nights, in a simple yet effective lightweight gel. Written by Rachel Douglass.

I don’t often use overnight treatments, so I had high anticipation for this Allies of Skin mask. With instructions of using the mask 2-3 nights in a row, giving the effect of high exfoliation. The ingredients list was already exciting, with AHAs, Retinol and Probiotics, further encouragement of intense skin nourishment. My hope was that it would tackle my dark spots, visible pores and old scarring, which are the main problem areas my skin faces.

ALLIES OF SKINS FOUNDER NICOLAS TRAVIS

The gel itself is very light weight, and not overly sticky, making application smooth. I didn’t feel uncomfortable to lie down after putting the product on, as it only took a few seconds to fully dry. My excitement to see the results the next morning wasn’t disheartened. I noticed my skin looked a lot brighter, and definitively smoother. There was some residue that I needed to peel off, but it was the only fault I could find because, after only one night, I could already see significant changes.

Over the next two nights my skin condition improved quite a bit more, with a smoother appearance and a visible relief from stress. My skin looked refreshed and my hopes were truly reached each morning. However, the effects of the mask start to wear off after a few days of not using it. With make-up usage and other daily effects, the refreshed look started to die away, suggesting that using this product may have to become a fortnightly ritual. For the price, this can feel quite painful but the regular usage promises lasting effects.

You can purchase the Allies of Skin Bright Future Overnight Facial Mask at www.skins.nl for €130. Check the complete Allies of Skins line at Skins.

Think of cosmetics and salespeople in white coats and everybody thinks of Kiehl’s. Kiehl’s started out as a homeopathic pharmacy in 1851, it now has over 1,000 points of sale worldwide with an exceptionally large male clientele base. Written by Wes Viana Ferreira.

My first memories of the brand started in the US – where the brand was founded. All stores have a minimalistic feel to them and make you feel at home no matter where you are.

I especially reminisce the Santa Monica store – close to the Brentwood country mart – and use of Kiehl’s toiletries at the Chateau Marmont. The products have a comparable design to their ingredients: simple and practical. No funny extras.

With their newly introduced Grooming Solutions, Kiehl’s is catering solely to the contemporary man. And that is someone with limited time, looking for the perfect result. What better way to save time then to combine a conditioner and shampoo? The Nourishing Shampoo + Conditioner feels like a quick mask for your hair and is paraben and sulphate free. The styling products in the collection come in easy-to-travel packages and there is a product for every type of styling job.

Wondering why all stores feature a skeleton? His name is Mr. Bones and he represents the pharmacy heritage and the time when one of Kiehl’s founding members would use it during consultations to explain patient’s ailments.

As a millennial I’m one of those people who halfway their teens had the choice between manual and electrical tooth brushing. Electrical toothbrushes are recommended by dentists. But it takes some time to adapt from the manual movements to the electrical. Written by Wes Viana Ferreiro.

I still have to tell myself daily to hold my brush still, and carefully hit every tooth on three sides. Tooth brushing is incoherently connected to parenting, every parent will tell their children to brush their teeth properly every day and never skip. Therefore tooth brushing can sometimes feel like a paradox punishment, but why? Tooth brushing is just for you!

With the introduction of the Philips Sonic Diamondclean series (in addition to a lot of other innovative products) tooth brushing does not have to feel like a disciplinary act any longer. The new devices have a sleek and intelligent design. It powers wireless and it fits right in with any designer bathroom.

Previously toothbrushes were put away in cupboards, but now toothbrushes can predominantly feature in your lush bathroom. It also comes with a practical traveler’s set that is chargeable via USB. The many different features make tooth brushing a fun activity, similar to a game where you have to hit every level before you can stop and feel significantly better once you have.

Just when you think that they are done elevating their brand, the young entrepreneurs from Daily Paper ad yet another chapter to their story. Today marks the opening of Day Studios, a new contemporary hair salon for men presented by Daily Paper. Written by Richenny Felicia.

It’s no secret that streetwear brands and retailers more than other outlets manage to establish a solid customer base and also built a following that, more often than not, hangs out around their stores. Daily Paper took note of this and in a turn of events now offer their visitors an actual reason to stick around.

Over the past few days the Salon has welcomed a select group of invitees, among whom sportsmen, artist, journalists and other taste makers, to get a first hand trial run at being cut at Day Studios by Paul, the man who will actually run the place. Needles to say that everyone walked away more than happy, as could be seen all over social media.

Paul Day, originally from New Zealand, has been based in Amsterdam for the past two years. After having cut and styled hair all over the world, he now decided it was time to settle here and offer his services on one spot where many international people come through, so he could reach as many individuals as possible. Time spent in his chair, is time spent getting to know a visionary, enthusiastic and talented young mind. What exactly that means you will have to go and experience for yourself.

Next week a barber from LA is flying in for the week, after which the second chair will be in hands of a barber that Paul himself has trained. For the time being he is still across the world, temporarily, mastering the final touches of his craft. Together they can take care of all types of hair, from European to black, at Bilderdijkstraat 131 in Amsterdam. Not only while you’re there, but also by offering Redken For Men products to groom and maintain your new cut after the fact.

Besides the very capable hands of the barbers and the coolness of brand, we must not forget the greatest element of Day Studios, which is arguably its space. Set in the back of the Daily Paper store, it’s like gem waiting to be discovered. The minimalistic design, life size mirrors and clean interior elements manage to express a very sophisticated and contemporary masculinity. No offence to all the “authentic barbershops” which have built themselves on a look and feel of the past, but this is exactly what the modern young man with style looks for in terms of spaces to live his life in.

The story doesn’t end there though. Daily Paper also launched their new slides collaboration with the Sandalboyz in the new shoe corner of their store, where they will be selling footwear from other brands in the future. In case it wasn’t clear yet, a visit to their store now means a head-to-toe hook up with a fresh look and outfit. What more could a man want?

Get the feeling of luxury from outstanding simplicity. Written by Rachel Douglass

We all have that one product that doesn’t necessarily have an important function but we still adore and refuse to think otherwise. This product for me has become the KenzoKI SOS Roll-On Mask. I can’t seem to get enough of using it, despite it not bringing much of a change to my face, and I believe it all comes down to its innovative design.

At the end of the simple tube the applicator, a rounded metal roller, ensures that product is evenly spread under the eye. This technique provides an instantly refreshing feel when applying, creating a sense of energy and an illuminating feeling under your eyes. It is for this reason I have become absorbed with this product, using it as a refreshing boost at the end of a long day.

Its actual aim is to tighten the under eye area, leaving it feel firmer and look brighter. I don’t necessarily see these effects, but I certainly feel them through the slight tingling sensation provided by the formula. The fragrance is signature to the brand, with enticing hints of ginger and a use of multi minerals to invigorate the eye zone. It can definitely become a weekly dose of luxury from a seemingly simple product.

& Other Stories capture the smell of nostalgia in their new Miami Muse beauty line. Written by Rachel Douglass.

Ever dreamt of smelling like the sweet scent of cotton candy all day, every day? & Other Stories have made this a possibility with their cotton candy flavoured Miami Muse line. The new beauty collection features baby pink body wash, hand cream and body spray to keep you smelling good non-stop.

The body wash, a personal favourite of mine, provides refreshing moisture in a silky soap with an intense fragrance that has the power to boost your mood. The feeling of hydration comes from the use of vitamin E and macadamia oil mixed with almond oil, urging you to layer up your body. The sweet smell is youthful, creating an energetic line for the & Other Stories brand reminding you of your childhood days.

Urban Decay is here to challenge your makeup to stand the test of time. Written by Rachel Douglass.

The number one problem I face with makeup is making it last all day or night. Nothing is worse than coming home to cracked foundation and eyeliner imprints under your fading eyebrows. To promise 24/7 makeup is a big statement that is rarely lived up to, but Urban Decay’s All-Nighter spray definitely comes close to the mark.

With an aim of ensuring your makeup lasts for up to 16 hours, this spray comes from a brand with an exceeding reputation. I had high expectations, and as a regular full face makeup user, I was excited to see the results. The spray itself actually feels very refreshing on the skin, with the light mist being suitable for all skin types. I didn’t find it at all oily and the fast-drying formula added to the weightlessness of the product.

I can’t say I was disappointed when I got home after a full day. Often I find my face with close to no makeup but it actually appeared as though my face had lasted. Despite it not being completely fresh, which wasn’t expected, I was pleasantly surprised to find my eyeliner intact and a fair amount of coverage still going strong. The spray has a patented Temperature Control Technology, making it suitable for all weather types – perfect for humid summer evenings or rainy spring days.

You can buy the Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray for €27,50 at www.iciparisxl.nl

Do you love hot showers just as much as I do? Do you enjoy going to the spa for a day and join as many sauna infusions as you can fit in one visit? Do you love to sunbath until you have the perfect sun-kissed bod? Written by Wes Viano Ferreiro.

Then you can’t go without Clinique’s newly introduced MenTM Maximum Hydrator Activated Water-Gel Concentrate. This face gel is designed to hydrate your skin to the perfect level. It leaves a cool feeling on your skin and will directly be absorbed without leaving a residue. Normally a product can leave an oily, creamy feeling but with this product you don’t have to worry about that!

The gel has a ‘liquid sphere technology’ which are capsulated beads that include Vitamin E and C that burst open once it is applied to your skin. The ‘moisture holding matrix polymer’ technology guarantees to capsulate the liquid cells in your skin and attract more of those so that your skin looks great.

A little extra bonus is that it’s allergy-free; it’s been tested 12 times on a group of 600 people – none of them showed signs of an allergic reaction.

One of our favourite hair brands has returned with a new way of blow drying your hair. Written by Rachel Douglass.

Your Hair Assistant is the new product line by, MIRROR MIRROR favourite, Davines giving us more reasons to love this environmentally friendly, hair loving brand. Focusing on blow drying and good quality haircuts, the line takes you from preparation, to styling, to finishing whilst remaining completely sustainable. Their focus on eco-friendly production and products is admirable and their commitment to great hair is impressive. This especially applies to this particular line, with each product providing a specific relief for your heat damaged hair.

In the shower, the Prep Mild Cream and Prep Rich Balm are a substitute for your average conditioner, with each one being suited to a particular hair type. Using the rich balm, suited for normal to thick hair, I ran the product through my dry tips. At first, I had to use large amounts of the creamy texture in order to be able to run it through the thickness of my hair. However, after washing the product off you are left with the satisfying conditioned feeling. I did miss the detangling effect so I often mixed the formula with another conditioner for extra brushing ease.

The next step is the Blowdry Primer, created to aid the speed up of drying and protect against heat and humidity. With dry hair like mine, it is hard to contain the frizz when blowdrying so it proved a challenge for the primer. Against all odds, it did manage to improve the feeling of my hair once it was dry and kept it feeling soft despite the extensive heat damage I put it through.

Finally, the Definition Mist is a spray to be used to texture the hair and polish off your style. I immediately fell in love with how light it was. Unlike heavy hairsprays, the mist stays true to its name, lightly touching your hair without taking away any shine or adding any oil. It simply highlights your natural hair, making it look its best with minimal effort involved.